Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka paid his first official visit to India from 24–26 August 2025, marking a new chapter in India–Fiji relations rooted in over a century-old shared history.
Historical Ties
Relations date back to 1879, when over 60,000 Indians were taken to Fiji under the indenture system, shaping Fiji’s society and economy. Today, Indo-Fijians make up about one-third of Fiji’s population, with cultural bonds celebrated through Girmit Day, Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards, and Hindi Conferences.
Development & Cooperation
- Defence & Security: MoU on Defence Cooperation strengthened; a Defence Wing and Cyber Security Training Cell to be set up in Suva.
- Healthcare: India to fund a 100-bed Super Specialty Hospital in Suva, expand Jan Aushadhi Kendras, and provide e-Sanjeevani telemedicine services.
- Economy & Agriculture: New MoUs signed for finance, trade, and agri-development, including support for Fiji’s sugar sector and food security.
- Climate & Energy: Collaboration on biofuels, solar projects, and resilience under ISA, CDRI, and GBA.
- Culture & Education: Teacher exchanges, training of Fijian Pundits, migration & mobility declaration, and new chancery land agreements.
Global & Regional Cooperation
Fiji has joined India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) and backs India’s UNSC permanent membership bid. Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to the Global South, climate action, and sustainable development.
Conclusion
PM Modi and PM Rabuka’s talks highlighted the spirit of “Veilomani Dosti” (friendship and compassion), reinforcing India–Fiji ties across defence, health, trade, culture, and global cooperation.
